Being Prepared at Home

The likelihood of you and your family surviving a house fire depends as much on having a working smoke detector and an exit strategy, as on a well-trained fire department. The same is true for surviving a natural disaster or other emergency. We must have the tools and plans in place to make it on our own, at least for a period of time, no matter where we are when disaster strikes. Just like having a working smoke detector, preparing for the unexpected makes sense. Get a kit, make a plan and be informed.

Have a Plan

• Because disasters may be unexpected, it is important to have a family plan of action and communication to ensure that all household members are safe.
• Remember to keep a list of emergency contact numbers for your household members, nearby hospitals, first response agencies, and others.
• Visit Ready.gov for a good resource on creating a Family Emergency Plan

Build a Kit

• A disaster kit is a cache of basic supplies that you would need during a disaster. These supplies could be stored in a container or backpack in your home. It is good practice to keep a second disaster kit in your car or place of employment.
  • The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends that you include three days of food and water. Depending on how remote your home is, you may want to prepare for longer.
• Make sure you include items that may be specific to other household members with special needs such as children, the elderly, pets, etc.
• In addition to items necessary for survival, consider including “morale boosting” items in case you are required to shelter in place for a few days. Examples could be crayons and coloring books or playing cards.
• Here are some links for building your own disaster kit.. Guidance may vary, so we encourage you to research and determine what fits your household needs and budget best.
  • Maine Prepares
  • Ready.gov

Stay Informed

• Learn how your community will alert you about emergencies
  • insert Code Red Here
• Subscribe to alert services for emergency information. MEMA offers e-mail alerts through the Maine.gov subscriber service.
• Know the difference between weather watches, advisories and warnings and what you should do for each. NOAA weather radios can keep you informed
  • Flood Criteria
  • Hurricane Criteria
  • Summer Storm Criteria
  • Winter Storm Criteria
• Identify local evacuation routes, transportation providers, warming/cooling centers, and regional shelters.
• Think safety at all times: TURN AROUND when roads are flooded. Keep generators OUTSIDE. Be CAREFUL with candles and kerosene lamps. STAY AWAY from downed power lines.

Be a Good Neighbor

• Get to know your neighbors, and identify those who may need additional assistance during a disaster.
• Check on your neighbors before, during, and after a disaster if it is safe and possible.
• Assist neighbors with identifying resources they may need during a disaster (transportation, meal services, medical assistance).
• Plan how your neighborhood could work together after a disaster.